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2019 Chevrolet C7 Corvette ZR1

  2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 755HP + Big Wing = 210 MPH Chevrolet has once again raised the already high bar with the introduction of the 2019 Corvette ZR1. Learning from issues on the previous year C7’s it looks as though they have solved the problems with a completely redesigned front facia and cooling system. …

TR6060 SIX SPEED TRANSMISSION

TR6060 Transmission Gear Ratio Chart

Late Model GM Manual Transmission Gear Ratio Chart T-56 Six-Speed (Corvette) Type First Gear Second Gear Third Gear Fourth Gear Fifth Gear Sixth Gear 1997-2007 Corvette (base) 2.66 1.78 1.30 1.00 0.74 0.50 2001-07 Corvette Z06 2.97 2.07 1.43 1.00 0.84 0.56 ZF Six-Speed Type First Gear Second Gear Third Gear Fourth Gear Fifth Gear …

C7 ZR1 Corvette Rumors

The latest talk in the Corvette world is the rumor of the ZR1 and a dual overhead cam V8. Some high-resolution pictures have surfaced this week that show the ZR1 is in late development and may be coming soon. Photos and video have been taken on a prototype testing at the Nürburgring. Several obvious changes …

Chevrolet Corvette C7.R wins in Long Beach

In a bizarre last lap finish Corvette Racing’s Oliver Gavin and Tommy Milner won the GT Le Mans class at the Bubba Burger Sports Car Grand Prix of Long Beach. This is the sixth victory for the team and Chevrolet in Long Beach in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. The two C7.R Corvettes were running …

LS Throttle Body Guide

Since the introduction of the LS engine in 1997 there have been several variations of throttle bodies. They have ranged from the original cable driven, three bolt 78mm, all the way up the 90mm, electronically controlled four bolt found on the LS3. Depending on your application a larger throttle body can provide some additional power. …

LS Valve Cover Upgrade

One of the most effective ways to upgrade the look of an LS engine is to change the valve covers. The OE valve covers are made from cast aluminum and have a rough, unfinished look that is not very appealing. The ignition coils are mounted to a bracket or directly to the valve covers depending …

LS Timing and Rear Cover Alignment

The LS engine uses front timing cover and rear main seal cover made from cast aluminum. Each has a seal pressed in to keep the oil on the crankshaft from leaking out. Between each cover and the engine block are seals made from stamped aluminum impregnated with a rubber seal. Aligning these covers is critical …

LS Rocker Arm Upgrade

Look around these days at any car show or race track and you will find some kind of performance vehicle running an LS engine. From the street to the desert to the water, the LS engine has been proven to make exceptionally high, reliable power while remaining compact and light weight. A perfect combination for …

A Look into LS Cylinder Heads

There are a wide variety of OE, original equipment GM LS cylinder heads that flow excellent numbers and perform right from the production line. Depending on the application, the L92/LS3/LS7 cylinder head can support well over 1000+ horsepower. Take these heads and have them Custom CNC ported by a company like West Coast Cylinder Heads …

LSA Supercharger Issues

GM has identified a problem on the 6.2L Supercharged LSA Engine found in the Camaro ZL1 and Cadillac CTS-V. Reports show that a rattle may develop from a bearing on the main input shaft. The grease in the shaft bearing may become contaminated causing the bearing to overheat and fail. Leading up to this owners …

LS Coils and Plug Wires

Performance Distributors offers an upgraded ignition coil for LS series engines. They produce additional voltage over the stock coil to help produce more power, better throttle response, quicker starting and smoother idle. Each coil produces 7000 additional volts and will fire plug gaps up to .065”. They will bolt up to the factory brackets in …

Z/28 GM Parts Restriction

GM has announced a restriction on over 40 specific parts found only on the new Z/28 Camaro. This has been done in an effort to prevent cloning. This will ensure protection of the vehicles brand and customers investment. Dealers replacing parts under warranty will be required to submit specific owners and vehicle information before any …

2015 Corvette Z06

Chevrolet has once again raised the bar in the performance car world with the debut of the 2015 Corvette Z06. Not to be confused with the 2015 Corvette Stingray, the Z06 is an entirely different animal. To set the record straight, the correct nomenclature is “Corvette Z06”. The term “Stingray” is for the standard C7 …

B&M 6L80E Transmission Pan Install

Keeping the transmission fluid cool is the best way to increase the overall longevity. B&M Racing has introduced a specific pan for the GENV Camaro SS. It is made from K-Alloy cast aluminum that provides a 30% increase in cooling efficiency. The larger pan also adds 1.8 quarts to the overall capacity. Also available is …

Project LS3 Conversion Segment 3

Segment 3 of the LS3 Conversion is focused on the camshaft installation and some detail work.   With the short block complete I next installed the ARP head studs and PFADT Racing solid engine mounts. Going from a liquid filled mount to a solid makes a big difference in how the entire car feels. With an …

The All New Small Block Chevrolet

The Small Block Chevrolet as we know it started out in 1955 as a 265 cubic inch V8. In the past 59 years there have been substantial strides in technology, efficiency and durability. The latest debuts in the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado. There are three all new EcoTec3 engines available on the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 in …

Project LS3 Conversion Segment 2

Segment 2 of the LS3 Conversion focused on the cylinder heads. Matching the camshaft, combustion chamber volume and port design will yield excellent results in power and reliability. For help with this, The LSX Dr. called upon West Coast Cylinder Heads (WCCH) in Reseda, CA. WCCH is one of the premiere machine shops in the …

2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28

Chevrolet has introduced the restyled 2014 Camaro. The long debated rumors of a Z/28 model have come true. This car is going to be an all out Performance Monster. Engineers have gone over every aspect of the GEN5 and have made some significant improvements. The revised exterior has been designed to increase aerodynamics for high-speed …

Project LS3 Conversion Segment 1

If you have a GEN5 Camaro with an automatic transmission then you are most likely familiar with the Active Fuel Management feature on the L99. For some drivers, they like the feature of 4 cylinders deactivating on the highway to save fuel. Others are annoyed at the exhaust drone and lack of performance. One popular …

GM Reveals Three New Gen V EcoTec3 Engines

On December 13, 2012, GM revealed three new Gen V EcoTec3 engines. All three will be available in the 2014 Silverado/Sierra full size pickups. GM engineers have designed these engines to be used for the way customers use their trucks in the real world. All three engines feature direct fuel injection, cylinder deactivation and continuously variable …

5.3L Silverado Engine Build

The LS series family of engines from GM has proven to be one of the most reliable and powerful lines in the company’s history. Ranging from 4.8 liters to the almighty 7.0L found in the ZO6 Corvette, these engines have dominated the racing world for years. There are tons of aftermarket parts available to increase …

Circuit of the Americas

Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is an all new state of the art motorsports and entertainment venue. It is located in Austin, Texas just 15 miles from downtown.  It is a purpose built facility designed to host the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix and the V8 Supercars events. The venue is expected to draw …

Deatsch Werks Fuel Injectors

Deatsch Werks is a company that is dedicated to providing application specific, high performance fuel injection solutions. Their product line up of fuel injectors includes over 250 applications that will fit imports to high horsepower muscle cars. The LSX Dr. has chosen to run the Deatsch Werks fuel injectors on our project Camaro. These 65lb. …

Electronic Power Steering

As gas prices continue to climb car manufacturers are looking for ways to increase fuel economy. Electronic Power Steering is one such way. By eliminating the hydraulic power steering pump a EPS system can provide up to a 2% increase over the conventional system. Another benefit of having a EPS system in the elimination the …

Chevy Reveals GEN5 Small Block

The all new Chevy V8 will be designated as the LT1. It features direct fuel injection and reversed position of intake and exhaust valves. Early reports from GM say it will make over 450 horsepower. Final numbers when the 2014 Corvette is released. Specs released from GM: Engine type: 90-degree V-8 with overhead valves; continuous …

GM Reveals 2014 Corvette Emblem

The next generation Corvette is coming. GM has revealed the emblem that will represent the company’s flagship vehicle. Rumors and speculation about the C7 have been all over the performance world. Over the next few weeks GM will be releasing videos over the internet revealing more information. They can be seen here: http://www.chevrolet.com/one13thirteen.html There have been …

Elite Engineering Catch Can Install

Elite Engineering offers an Oil Catch Can for the GEN5 Camaro that will eliminate oil from the intake system. Installation is simple and the unit has been proven effective. Excessive oil vapors in the intake system can cause performance loss and be detrimental to the overall longevity of the engine. There are several ways excessive …

The History of the Chevrolet Bowtie

The Chevrolet Bowtie has been one of the World’s most recognized trademarks since 1913. Louis Chevrolet and William C. Durant founded Chevrolet on November 3, 1911. General Motors later acquired Chevrolet in 1918. The script logo was used from 1911 to 1914. It was known as the Type “C” or ‘Classic Six”. William C. Durant …

KOOKS Long Tube Headers and Exhaust

KOOKS 1 7/8 Long Tube Headers KOOKS 3” Race Exhaust System ARP Header Studs When looking to increase Horse Power and overall Performance on your GEN5 Camaro SS installing long tube headers and a free flowing exhaust is one of the most cost effective ways of doing so. The stock manifolds and catalytic converters are …

ARP Fasteners

When is comes to bolts, studs or any kind of fasteners ARP is the world leader. Started back in 1968, ARP’s product line has expanded to thousands of part numbers to virtually include every fastener in the engine and driveline. ARP is the choice for NASCAR, NHRA, Formula 1 and IndyCar. The LSX Dr. has …

Dual Optima Battery Install

The Optima RedTop Battery is a popular choice for high performance vehicles. The RedTop will outperform and outlast traditional batteries in demanding cranking/starting applications. The RedTop is completely spill proof and can be mounted in many positions unlike traditional acid filled batteries. The LSX Dr. has done a custom Dual RedTop installation in our GEN5 …

Granatelli Spark Plug Wire Upgrade

One of the easiest ways to add more horse power to your LS Engine is installing long tube headers and a free flowing exhaust. This allows the engine to breathe and run more efficient. Long tube headers are typically made from stainless steel and stock manifolds from cast iron. Because of the different characteristics of …

Dale Jr. Wins in Michigan!

Dale Earnhardt Jr. drove his Chevrolet into victory lane Sunday at Michigan International Speedway. This victory comes almost 4 years to the day since his last win. The win and the bonus points for leading the most laps has put him only 4 points behind overall points leader Matt Kenseth as they head to Sonoma …

GEN5 Camaro Brake Performance Upgrade

The GEN5 Camaro SS comes with a substantial brake system in order to stop all 3,913 pounds of rolling mass.  The SS model is equipped with fixed 4 piston aluminum Brembo calipers. Front rotors measure in at 14 inches while the rear rotors measure in at 14.4 inches.  Weight distribution is close to perfect: 52% …

2012 Camaro ZL1 New Model Features and Service Guide

Engine The Camaro ZL1 will be equipped with a 6.2-liter sixth-generation Eaton supercharged V8 engine (LSA) that is rated at 580 horsepower and 556 lb.-ft of torque and is available with the standard six-speed manual (MG9) or Hydra-Matic® 6L90 automatic transmission. This engine features an intercooled supercharger system and premium heat-resistant aluminum-alloy cylinder heads. It …

How to Pin a Crankshaft

LS Based engines are equipped with a pressed on harmonic balancer that is held on with a torque to yield bolt. There is no keyway or timing mark alignment.  The factory bolt is designed to be used one time as it stretches on installation.  When adding a supercharger it will be necessary to “Pin” the …

No. 48 Lowes Team Wins Pit Crew Challenge

CHARLOTTE, N.C.  The number 48 team of Hendrick Motorsports saved the best for last as they inched ahead of the number 11 Toyota from Joe Gibbs Racing to win the Pit Crew Challenge. The competition includes simultaneously changing front and rear tires, fueling and jacking four different cars, then pushing a team car across the …

First ZL1 Camaro in the 9’s

Livernois Motorsports is the first company to get the new ZL1 Camaro in the 9 second bracket.  The heavily modified engine has 707 rear wheel horsepower and 680 pound feet of torque. The car is still full weight, weighing in at 4295 with the driver. Here is a list of modifications done to get this …

Brake Rotor Technology

Maintaining the brake system on your vehicle is one of the most important things you can do to insure proper safety for you and the other drivers around you. Brake rotors are one of the main components in the system and they are constantly exposed to extreme temperatures and environmental conditions. Rust is one of …

Lizzy Musi’s Drag Car Takes Out Camera

21-year-old Lizzy Musi, daughter of veteran NHRA Champion, Pat Musi, is on her first year of drag racing. She is off to an impressive start for a rookie running a 4.34-second 170 MPH 1/8 mile run Friday at Bristol Dragway. Unfortunately, she ran into some bad luck when her car got loose and went airborne. …

Wrap Your Hose for Protection

Standard radiator, fuel and emission hoses are just plain ugly and unprotected. Thankfully there are options for protection and added good looks. Hose candy makes a full selection of hoses and hose protection sleeves that offer superior heat protection and a custom look. Hose Candy also makes a unique hose clamp that replaces conventional metal …

Slippery When Wet

When adding a product to your car it not only has to have great aesthetics but needs to perform just as good as it looks. The Reusable oil filter from Pure Power is one such product. They are made from 6061 T6 Billet Aluminum and feature 100% Filtration through T304 Stainless Steel Media. This is …

4-Wheel Alignments in Depth

Suspension upgrades are some of the most popular and beneficial modifications that can be done to the GEN5 Camaro. Enthusiasts are always looking to get an edge, whether at the drag strip or on a road course. Common upgrades include Larger Sway Bars, Lowering Springs, Urethane Bushings, Control Arms and various Chassis Braces. After the …

Methanol Injection 101

Methanol Injection is one of the most popular add-on systems for High Performance Engines. It works great on Supercharged, Turbocharged and Diesel engines. By injecting a mixture of methanol and water into the engine the intake air temperature is dramatically lowered. Lower IAT results in increased ignition timing, which equals more power. Besides increasing power, …

ACDelco Launches Re-designed OE Oil Filter

ACDelco has announced a re-designed Original Equipment (OE) oil filter that offers ACDelco’s exclusive Duraguard® media in a smaller package. The new OE filter applications PF46E, PF47E, PF52E and PF61E will be installed in applicable new GM models. The new oil filter features: Increased efficiency and higher burst and collapse strength (Fig. 5, A) A …

NASCAR EFI Engines

Technology and NASCAR go hand-in-hand in the future of stock car racing. In 2012, the Cup Series has switched from 4 decades of carbureted engines to fuel injection. One of the major advantages electronic fuel injection has over a carburetor is the ability to adapt to a changing racing environment. Because NASCAR is always making …

Camaro 1LE Performance Track Package

The legendary 1LE option package will return to the 2013 Camaro. The 1LE performance package borrows production components from both the Camaro SS and upcoming Camaro ZL1 to deliver a competition and road course-ready package. For 2013, the 1LE package is offered only on 1SS and 2SS coupe models, featuring a 6.2L LS3 V-8, which …

SEMA to Purchase PRI

Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) announced the purchase of Performance Racing Industry (PRI) this week. The deal is set to be finalized at the end of March. This joins two of the industries largest trade shows. Each November in Las Vegas, SEMA represents the industry and people who make up the aftermarket auto parts business. …

Underhood Dress-up

Undercover Innovations develops products to improve the appearance of the unattractive space in front of the radiator core support.  They also make a Lower Closeout Panel for the GEN5 Camaro. This panel keeps the engine compartment cleaner and directs more air over the radiator. The Lower Closeout Panel bolts to the front sub-frame. Self tapping …

Reducing Wheel Hop on the GEN5 Camaro

The GEN5 Camaro utilizes an independent 4.5 link rear suspension. The factory toe and trailing arms are made from stamped steel and are fitted with rubber bushings. With increased horsepower it suffers from wheel hop and poor traction under hard acceleration. PFADT Race Engineering has a developed a solution to minimize wheel hop and increase …

Keeping Your Cool with Flex-a-lite

The GEN5 Camaro in stock form is an excellent performance sports car.  But as gear heads want to make their ride faster and increase horsepower, the demand on the engine and cooling system increases.  The stock radiator and transmission cooler was not designed for high horsepower engines that are running down the drag strip or …

Keeping the Bottom End Tight

The GEN5 Camaro chassis design incorporates a front and rear sub-frame, mounted to a stamped steel unibody. This design suffers from some body flex. GM engineers tried to minimize this chassis flex with a stamped steel, under body brace. This OE piece leaves a lot to be desired. Thanks to the guys at Elite Engineering …

Get Some Good Vibrations with Fluidampr

A properly balanced engine is the key to performance and longevity. The all-new Fluidampr Balancer for the GEN5 Camaro LS3 / L99 is American made and built to last. The internal silicone technology continuously self-tunes in real time. This optimizes dampening the torsional vibrations at peak levels across a broad changing frequency range. The Fluidampr …

Getting Some Fresh Air

One of the most popular and effective ways to add power to your GEN5 Camaro is the addition of a Cold Air Intake. The introduction of clean, cool air increases efficiency and power. The guys at ADM Performance have a fantastic product that accomplishes just this. They have designed a replacement air intake system that …

Injecting Methanol into a LS3

Since the GEN 5 Camaro was introduced, enthusiasts have been looking for ways to get more Horse Power from their engines. One popular method is injecting Water /Methanol into the intake air stream. Significant gains can be had from a proper operating system. Recently, I installed a Stage 3 Snow Performance Gasoline Boost Cooler on …

Minimizing Deflection

The GEN5 Camaro is one of the most popular late model Muscle Cars on the market today. Enthusiasts have been eager since its introduction to get more power and better handling. Thanks to the guys at PFADT Race Engineering there are many options on how to get your GEN5 Camaro to improve its handling and …